Action between Ateneo and UP in the UAAP Season 87 women's football tournament, November 9, 2024 at the UP Diliman Football Stadium. UAAP Media
MANILA -- Ateneo de Manila University and University of the Philippines battled to a goalless draw to open their second round campaigns in the UAAP Season 87 women's football tournament on Saturday at the UP Diliman Football Stadium.
Goal-keeper Chelssy Casals stood tall late to ensure that the Blue Eagles would go home with a point, as she denied UP's Isalyn Tundag.
The Blue Eagles now have four points in the season as they had beaten University of Santo Tomas to close the first round.
"It was actually a good start for us this second round. We tried to press and take advantage of the loose balls, but, unfortunately, 'yung finishing talaga was a big problem. We cannot score right away; parang it takes time," Ateneo coach Bob Manlulo said.
The Blue Eagles started on the right foot with two early chances that went straight to the UP keeper Eunice Eduave, but it was the Fighting Maroons that had better chances with first-round goalscorer Chantal Van Ommeren threatening for a breakthrough.
The scoreline, though, remained at 0-0 at the break, much to Manlulo's delight. He credited the defense anchored on Casals.
"She had good timing and the right anticipation of the whole game. It goes to show that the team wants to improve," the long-time Ateneo mentor said.
UP tried to duplicate its first-round win with another late winner, but Hannah Muros’ run to the Ateneo penalty area went for naught as Casals shut the door on the Fighting Maroons.
The season host remained in third place with five points on minus-3 on goal difference.